CPU Design — What Does RISC Stand For? In computer architecture terminology, expand the acronym RISC and identify the design philosophy it represents.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Reduced Instruction Set Computer

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Processor designs generally fall into categories that reflect instruction set complexity and microarchitectural goals. RISC architectures have influenced everything from embedded controllers to modern smartphones and servers.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are expanding the acronym, not comparing performance across vendors.
  • The concept refers to an instruction set philosophy emphasising simplicity and efficiency.


Concept / Approach:

Reduced Instruction Set Computer expresses a design that simplifies individual instructions so they execute quickly, often in one or a few cycles, enabling deep pipelining, large register files, and efficient compiler-driven code generation. This contrasts with CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer), which historically offered more complex, multi-cycle instructions.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Map R-I-S-C to 'Reduced Instruction Set Computer'.Recall hallmarks: load/store architecture, fixed or simple instruction formats, emphasis on pipeline throughput.Select the corresponding option.Reject distractors that misuse networking or compiler terminology.


Verification / Alternative check:

Computer architecture texts describe RISC as an approach prioritising streamlined instructions with hardware optimised for execution speed and parallelism.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Remodeled/Remote/Runtime…: Not standard expansions and mix unrelated domains.


Common Pitfalls:

Assuming RISC always means fewer lines of source code; it refers to instruction set complexity, not directly to code length in high-level languages.


Final Answer:

Reduced Instruction Set Computer

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